Rama Krishna Sangem
As the Central government is pushing for more electrical vehicles, demand for charging stations is fast catching up. As a result, the state governments and the electricity distribution companies under them are asked to encourage setting up of charging stations. In a way, EV charging stations are becoming new petrol pumps.
Yes, there is a new business opportunity for entrepreneurs. EV charging stations are becoming a common feature at new petrol pumps, as oil companies are integrating them to support the growing EV market. This is a strategic move for companies to create a new business opportunity and hedge against the shift from traditional fuels.
Integration: Major oil companies like Indian Oil, BPCL, and HPCL are installing EV charging facilities at many of their petrol pumps across the country. Some stations are even dedicated to being “Energy Stations” that serve both traditional fuel and EV charging needs.
Network growth: There are already more than 15,000 petrol pumps with EV charging, with plans to significantly increase this number. For example, BPCL aims to have charging stations at about 7,000 of its retail outlets.
Petrol pumps can set up EV charging stations
Location: You can find these integrated stations at existing petrol pumps, including those located on major highways like the Indian Oil pump on NH 44 in Kompally, Hyderabad. Technology: The chargers can include various types, such as AC and DC fast chargers, to serve different vehicle models.
Reasons for integration: By combining EV charging with traditional fuel services, companies are looking to a future where energy needs are diverse. This strategy is also driven by government support through schemes like FAME India.
Telangana’s Central Power Distribution Company CMD Musharraf Ali in a news brief said that his utility would offer subsidies to those who come forward to set up charging stations in the state. There is a mandate that for every 20 km on the national highways, one charging station can be set up. The business needs around Rs 20 lakh investment and a decent margin on the power sold to the batteries of EVs.
